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  • Attention Deficit Hyperactivity
    Disorder (ADHD/ADD)

    Attention Deficit
    Hyperactivity Disorder
    (ADHD/ADD)

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is also known as attention deficit disorder (ADD). It is estimated that ADHD affects three to five percent of children, adolescents and adults.

Symptoms begin in childhood and include impulsiveness, inattentiveness, distractibility, difficulty staying focused, difficulty with organization, and hyperactivity (over-activity). These symptoms cause a variety of problems at school, work and home, including the ability to learn and get along with others. There are currently three subtypes of ADHD, including predominantly hyperactive-impulsive, predominantly inattentive and combined, but most children have the combined type.

ADHD-Kids

Identifying ADHD in Childhood

Because the signs and symptoms of ADHD typically appear in childhood, it can be difficult to distinguish between ADHD and normal behaviour. It is normal for children to have difficulties with memory, concentration, attention and distractibility. It is also normal for children to have difficulty “sitting still” for any extended period of time.

It is important not to label normal childhood behaviour as ADHD. However, significant and persistent difficulties with inattention, distractibility, impulsivity, and hyperactivity across a variety of situations can also be signs and symptoms of ADHD.

The first step to understanding the problem is to recognize that there may be something going on. The next step is to consult a psychiatrist or a psychologist to get a proper comprehensive assessment and diagnosis, which enables you to understand what you or your child is struggling with. Then you can use CBT to address the problems and leverage strengths.

Identifying ADHD in Adults

ADHD is characterized by persistent inattention, hyperactivity and/or impulsivity that occurs in academic, social or work settings. Difficulties can include trouble focusing, making careless mistakes, becoming easily distracted, fidgeting, being constantly on the go, impatience and interrupting others.

Our assessment involves comprehensive testing that includes a diagnostic interview, cognitive testing and personality measurements. Each assessment is approximately three hours in length. A 30 minute feedback session with your psychologist will also be scheduled so that you can discuss your results, provide recommendations and treatment options, and address any questions or concerns that you may have.

ADHD-Adults

Treating ADHD/ADD

Effective treatments for ADHD include stimulant medications and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). Current evidence suggests that CBT alone can be an effective treatment for ADHD in many cases. In other cases, both CBT and medication are required. CBT for ADHD at any age includes teaching a number of compensatory strategies including:

  • Organizing and planning
  • Reducing distractibility
  • Problem solving
  • Prioritizing
  • Breaking tasks down into smaller steps
  • Challenging thinking
  • Positive self-talk
  • Positive rewards
  • Reducing distractions
  • Using auditory and visual cues
  • Calendar task-list systems
  • Anger and frustration management
  • Communication skills
< Back to Problems Addressed

Can We Help You?

CBT Associates is not an emergency or crisis service. 

In the event of an emergency or if you are in crisis, you should call 911 or go to the nearest hospital emergency room.

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  • Adults
    • Adult Assessment
    • Adult Treatment
    • Problems Addressed
  • Children & Adolescents
    • Treatment for Children & Adolescents
  • Third-Party Referrals & Services
  • Virtual Therapy
    • Virtual Therapy with CBTA
    • Live Sessions with MindBeacon
  • About Us
    • About CBT Associates
    • The CBT Approach
    • The CBT Associates Team
    • Rates & Fees
    • Train With Us
      • Supervised Practice
      • Clinical Psychology Residency Program
    • Join Our Team
  • Contact & Locations
CBT Associates